Police-1968-1969 — Page 49

WOMEN POLICE

174. The authorized establishment of women police was 435, but 40 supernumerary posts of Woman Constable and three posts of Women Inspector were granted making a total strength of 478, a figure which was well supplied by a ready availability of capable young women anxious to join the Force.

175. Women Police continued to be used in all fields of Police investigation and played a major role in the day-to-day policing of both the urban and rural areas. All Juvenile Court proceedings are now handled by Women Officers who also carry out the duties of Prosecutor. This is a particularly appropriate duty for women and one which they enjoy. In addition all escorts of female juveniles from the Girl's Remand Home to Juvenile Court are handled by the women officers of one station who are responsible for ensuring that these young girls do not mix with women and male juvenile prisoners.

176. To further expand the contact of Police and juveniles, women officers organized and supervised sports for children aged between seven and 13 each Saturday morning at the grounds of the Hong Kong Police Sports Association in Kowloon. Thus affording them facilities for regular recreational activities which they had not previously enjoyed. The children also receive light refreshments and they are then given the opportunity of having a shower before going home.

177. Nine women police officers received Commanding Officer's Commendations during the year.

POLICE DOG UNIT

178. The establishment of the Unit is one Senior Inspector, four N.C.O.'s and 31 P.C. handlers. The establishment of dogs is 36 being mainly Alsatians and Dobermanns.

179. The tracker dog was called out 54 times during the year and three arrests were made. Police dogs took part in two Obedience Trials held during the year. The results were most satisfactory, especially the successes gained by newly trained handlers and dogs. Plans for the expansion of the unit were given preliminary considera- tion.

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